Vacation
/veɪˈkeɪʃən/
Definitions
2 meaningsA period of time that is set aside for rest and recreation, especially one spent away from home or work.
/veɪˈkeɪʃən/
A period of time away from work or studies
The family is going on vacation to Disney World.
💡 Simply: Vacation is like hitting the pause button on work or school. It's a special time to relax, have fun, and do things you enjoy, maybe even traveling somewhere new!
👶 For kids: A vacation is when you don't have to go to school or work and can have fun and relax!
More Examples
She took a week's vacation to visit her relatives.
Many people use their vacation time to travel abroad.
How It's Used
"We're planning a vacation to the beach next summer."
"Students look forward to their summer vacation."
To spend time away from home or work on a vacation.
/veɪˈkeɪʃən/
To take a vacation
We vacationed in Italy last summer.
💡 Simply: To vacation is to spend your time away from your usual routine on a special break or holiday, like exploring a new city or relaxing at the beach.
👶 For kids: To vacation means to go on a trip and have fun!
More Examples
They vacationed in the countryside, enjoying the peace and quiet.
She decided to vacation with friends instead of staying home.
How It's Used
"They vacationed in the mountains."
Idioms & expressions
on vacation
Taking a period of rest and recreation.
"She's on vacation this week, so she won't be able to attend the meeting."
From Latin *vacatio* ('a being free from duty, leisure'), derived from *vacare* ('to be empty, be free'). It entered English in the 15th century.
Used as a noun to mean 'cessation from labor or business' since the 15th century, and as a verb in the 17th century.
Memory tip
Think of 'vacant' – the time is free and empty for fun!
Word Origin
"to be empty, be free"